News

Our own Brandon Miller and Laura Irish-Hanson sat down with MPR host Angela Davis last week to talk about the science behind maple syrup, how climate change is affecting the sap season in Minnesota, and what trees may better withstand climate change.

In honor of Women’s History Month and the United Nation's International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026, CFANS is proud to spotlight alumnae who are driving innovation and resilience across our local and global agrifood systems. These women exemplify the essential, yet often unrecognized, roles that farmers play in nourishing our communities and securing a sustainable future for all.

Rachel Sannerud earned a degree in horticulture in 2015 from the University of Minnesota.

Researchers are revolutionizing Chrysanthemum breeding by focusing on "crop ideotypes" that prioritize 13 key traits, from climate resilience to flowering speed. By blending traditional hybridization with modern molecular tools, experts are overcoming reproductive barriers to create sturdier, more vibrant cultivars. This integrated approach ensures the next generation of flowers meets the high-speed demands of the global floral market.

Introducing Gary Deters, a Lawn Water Conservation Educator! Discover how he used his passion for golf to become a Golf Course Superintendent, and is now sharing his knowledge and experience with everyone!

Congratulations to associate dean of Undergraduate Programs and professor, Dr. Julie Grossman, for receiving the 2026 Thomas Ehrlich Civically Engaged Faculty Award! Campus Compact recognizes Grossman for exemplary engaged scholarship.

Carter Miller, a participant in the University of Minnesota’s SOAR-REEU Summer Research Program, co-authored a study in HortTechnology with Department of Horticultural Science faculty and researchers evaluating hazelnut husks as a sustainable mulch for container nursery production. The research found the husks effectively suppressed weeds and maintained favorable growing conditions, underscoring a promising, locally sourced alternative and UMN’s commitment to collaborative, hands-on undergraduate research.

UMN Horticulture Department Remembers Gordon "Gordie" Bailey Jr. of the Bailey Nurseries and his long-lasting impact on the department.

Our own Matthew Gullickson and Mary Rogers conducted a new real-time PCR method that allows precise measurement of infestations by the invasive spotted‑wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii), a major threat to soft fruit crops. Offering faster and more accurate detection than traditional methods, it helps researchers and growers act quickly to protect yields.

This study from UMN researchers introduces a new, publicly available potato genetics resource designed to speed breeding and unlock untapped diversity. By capturing a wide range of genetic variation in diploid potatoes, it lays the groundwork for developing improved, more resilient varieties. Be sure to read more about these small potatoes with a big impact.

View our seminar speaker lineup and recordings for the 2026 Spring semester.

Seminars are at 3:30pm CT each date in Alderman 405 or by Zoom. In-person attendance is highly encouraged and recommended. Snacks are provided.